Can I make Macaroni Dill Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, Macaroni Dill Salad tastes even better after it has had time to chill in the fridge for a few hours. You can prepare it the day before your event, just ensure you store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Adding the dressing just before serving helps keep the salad extra creamy.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While macaroni noodles are the traditional choice, you can substitute them with any small pasta, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or even rotini. Just ensure the pasta is small enough to mix well with the vegetables and dressing.

Can I make a healthier version of Macaroni Dill Salad?

Yes, you can easily make a healthier version of this salad by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or opting for a light mayonnaise alternative. Additionally, you can add extra veggies like cucumbers or carrots to boost the nutritional value.

How long will Macaroni Dill Salad last in the fridge?

Macaroni Dill Salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep the salad cold and fresh. After that, the dressing may begin to break down and the vegetables can lose their crispness.

The Best Macaroni Dill Salad – Creamy, Easy, and Fresh

Name: Macaroni Dill Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked); 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 cup radishes (chopped); 1 green pepper (chopped); 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Description

Macaroni Dill Salad is the perfect creamy pasta salad with fresh vegetables, a zesty dressing, and a hint of spice. It’s a refreshing side dish ideal for summer BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. This easy-to-make salad is bursting with flavor and has the right balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked)
1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 cup radishes (chopped)
1 green pepper (chopped)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

Cook macaroni noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, Dijon mustard, and garlic until smooth.
Add macaroni, radishes, and green pepper to the bowl and stir to combine.
Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir again to distribute evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

Cook the pasta al dente to avoid a mushy texture in the salad.
Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
For extra flavor, add a pinch more cayenne or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
This salad can be made a day in advance and will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 262 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 367mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 17mg